Key attributes of an effective human source handler: Implications for handler selection and training. (December 2020)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Henry, Pamela; Rajakaruna, Nikki; Crous, Charl; Buckley, John
• Is Part Of: Police journal. Volume 93:Number 4(2020)
• Page Start: 290
• Page End: 309
• Publication Date: 2020-12
• Subjects: Confidential human source -- informant -- covert human intelligence source -- handler; Police -- Periodicals; Police -- Great Britain -- Periodicals; 363.205
• DOI: 10.1177/0032258X19862589
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0032-258X

Abstract

Despite the importance of human source intelligence very little has been written about the selection of police officers to undertake the specialist role of handler, and approaches to training in this specialist area. This research examined the nature of handling and the core attributes of effective human source handlers as perceived by 22 experienced handlers. Participants described handling as characterised by relationship alliance, task alliance and technique. Participants also identified attributes associated with the effective handling of human sources. Findings have important implications for the selection and training of officers for the role of human source handler.